Anti-Lock Brake System Module - Operation

OPERATION

NOTE: The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) may also be referred to as Electronic Stability Program (ESP) depending on the vehicle model year and configuration. Certain components may also reference ESP, ESC, or use the traction control symbol.

The primary functions of the Antilock Brake Module (ABM) are to:

- Monitor the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) for proper operation.
- Detect wheel locking or wheel slipping tendencies by monitoring the speed of all four wheels of the vehicle.
- Control fluid modulation to the wheel brakes while the system is in ABS or traction control mode.
- Modulates fluid pressure to the wheel brakes to control vehicle yaw rate in ESC mode.
- Store diagnostic information.
- Provide communication to the scan tool while in diagnostic mode.
- Illuminate the amber ABS indicator in the instrument cluster.
- Illuminate the yellow ESC/BAS indicator in the instrument cluster (if equipped).

The ABM constantly monitors the ABS and ESC (if equipped) for proper operation. If the ABM detects a fault, it will turn on the amber ABS and yellow ESC/BAS indicators and disable the ABS or ESC if so equipped. The normal base braking system will remain operational at that time.

The ABM continuously monitors the speed of each wheel through the signals generated by the wheel speed sensors to determine if any wheel is beginning to lock. When a wheel locking tendency is detected, the ABM commands the ABM solenoid coils to actuate. The coils then open and close the valves in the HCU that modulate brake fluid pressure in some or all of the hydraulic circuits. The ABM continues to control pressure in individual hydraulic circuits until a locking tendency is no longer present.